SAES-Y-101 Custody Metering of Hydrocarbon Gases

Engineering Standard
SAES-Y-101 31 May 2011

Custody Metering of Hydrocarbon Gases
Document Responsibility: Custody Measurement Standards Committee
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Table of Contents
1 Scope............................................................ 2
2 Conflicts and Deviations................................ 2
3 References.................................................... 2
4 Definitions and Abbreviations........................ 6
5 General Requirements.................................. 8
6 Application Requirements............................ 15
7 Equipment Requirements............................ 23
8 Testing and Inspection................................ 29
9 Shipping Requirements............................... 30
10 Documentation............................................ 32
Appendix A – Daily Delivery Ticket Format

for Ultrasonic Metering Systems.......... 33
Appendix B – Delivery Ticket Format
for Orifice Metering System................. 35
Appendix C – Comparison Report
for Ultrasonic Meters............................ 37
Previous Issue: 28 April 2009 Next Planned Update: 31 May 2016

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Primary contact: Maatoug A. Al-Maatoug on 966-3-8747960
Copyright©Saudi Aramco 2011. All rights reserved.

Document Responsibility: Custody Measurement Standards Committee SAES-Y-101
Issue Date: 31 May 2011
Next Planned Update: 31 May 2016 Custody Metering of Hydrocarbon Gases
1 Scope
This standard defines the minimum mandatory requirements governing the design,
construction, and installation of custody transfer metering stations used for the
measurement of sales gas and ethane.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
2.1 Any conflicts between this standard and other applicable Saudi Aramco
Engineering Standards (SAESs), Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications
(SAMSSs), Standard Drawings, (SASDs), industry standards, codes, and forms,
shall be resolved in writing through the Manager, Process & Control Systems
Department of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.
2.2 Direct all requests to deviate from this standard in writing to the Company or
Buyer's Representative, who shall follow internal procedure SAEP-302 and
forward such requests to the Manager, Process & Control Systems Department
of Saudi Aramco, Dhahran.
2.3 Direct all requests for interpretation of this standard in writing to the Company
or Buyer Representative who shall forward them to the Chairman, Custody
Measurement Standards Committee for resolution. The Chairman, Custody
Measurement Standards Committee shall be solely responsible for determining
whether a proposed installation meets the requirements of this standard.
3 References
The selection of material and equipment, and the design, construction, maintenance, and
repair of equipment and facilities covered by this standard shall comply with the latest
edition of the references listed below, unless otherwise noted.
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

SAEP-21 Project Execution Requirements for Saudi Aramco
Royalty/Custody Metering Systems
SAEP-50 Project Execution Requirements for Third party
Royalty/Custody Metering Systems
SAEP-302 Instructions for Obtaining a Waiver of a Mandatory
Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirement
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Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

SAES-A-112 Meteorological and Seismic Design Data
SAES-B-054 Access, Egress and Materials Handling for Plant
Facilities
SAES-B-068 Electrical Area Classification
SAES-H-001 Coating Selection & Application Requirements for
Industrial Plants & Equipment
SAES-J-002 Technically Acceptable Instrument Manufacturers
SAES-J-003 Instrumentation – Basic Design Criteria
SAES-J-004 Instrument Symbols and Identification
SAES-J-005 Instrumentation Drawings and Forms
SAES-J-200 Pressure
SAES-J-400 Temperature
SAES-J-502 Analyzer Shelters
SAES-J-801 Control Buildings
SAES-J-902 Electrical Systems for Instrumentation
SAES-L-102 Regulated Vendors List for Valves
SAES-L-105 Piping Material Specifications
SAES-L-108 Selection of Valves
SAES-L-109 Selection of Flanges, Stud Bolts and Gaskets
SAES-P-101 Regulated Vendors List for Electrical Equipment
SAES-P-104 Wiring Methods and Materials
SAES-P-111 Grounding
SAES-Y-100 Regulated Vendors List for Custody Measurement
Equipment
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

01-SAMSS-010 Fabricated Carbon Steel Piping
01-SAMSS-017 Auxiliary Piping for Mechanical Equipment
04-SAMSS-041 Expanding Plug Valve
17-SAMSS-515 Auxiliary Electrical Systems for Skid-Mounted
Equipment
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34-SAMSS-112 Orifice Meters for Gas Custody Measurement

34-SAMSS-114 Ultrasonic Flow Meters for Gas Custody
Measurement
34-SAMSS-511 Chromatographs
34-SAMSS-711 Control Valves - General Services
34-SAMSS-718 Electric Motor Operated Valve Actuators
34-SAMSS-820 Instrument Control Cabinets – Indoor
34-SAMSS-821 Instrument Control Cabinets – Outdoor
34-SAMSS-830 Programmable Logic Controller
34-SAMSS-831 Instrumentation for Packaged Units
34-SAMSS-846 Flow Computers for Custody Transfer Measurement
of Hydrocarbon Gases
34-SAMSS-913 Instrumentation and Thermocouple Cable
Saudi Aramco Standard and Library Drawings

AB-036019 Thermowell Assembly and Detail
AC-036045 Details Vent, Drain and Sample Connections
AE-036046 Detail of ½” Standard Sample Tube
AB-036180 Small Metering Skid (Gas) - Field - Mounted FC
AB-036181 Small Metering Skid (Gas) - Panel Mounted FC
AB-036182 Medium Metering Skid (Gas) - Orifice Based
AB-036183 Medium Metering Skid (Gas) - Ultrasonic Flow
Meter Based
AB-036184 Large Metering Skid (Gas) - Ultrasonic Flow Meter
Based
DC-950040 Pressure Indicators & Switches Locally Mounting
Instrument Piping Details
DC-950042 Instruments Piping Details Pressure Instruments
Blind and Indicating Type
DC-950043 Electrical Connections for Field-Mounted
Instruments
DD-950053 Field Mounting Details for Instruments
DC-950061 Instrument Piping Details – Flow Meter Installation
Page 4 of 38
Saudi Aramco Product Specifications

A-120 Dry Gas
A-130 Ethane – Chemical Grade
3.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American Gas Association (AGA)

AGA Report 3 Orifice Metering of Natural Gas
AGA Report 5 Fuel Gas Energy Metering
AGA Report 8 Compressibility and Supercompressibility for
Natural Gas and Other Hydrocarbon Gases
AGA Report 9 Measurement of Gas by Multipath Ultrasonic Meters
AGA Report 10 Speed of Sound in natural Gas & other Gases
American Petroleum Institute (API), Manual of Petroleum Measurement

Standards (MPMS)
API MPMS 14.1 Collecting and Handling of Natural Gas Samples
for Custody Transfer
API MPMS 14.3.1 Natural Gas Fluids Measurement, Concentric
Square-Edge Orifice Meters, General Equations
and Uncertainty Guidelines
API MPMS 14.3.2 Natural Gas Fluids Measurement, Concentric
Square Edge Orifice Meters, Specifications and
Installation Requirements
API MPMS 21.1 Electronic Gas Measurement
Commentary Note:
AGA-3 and API MPMS 14.3 are identical documents, so they can be used
interchangeably.
3.3 Other Documents

ASME B31.3 Process Piping
Directive 2004/108/EC European Council Directive for Electromagnetic
Compatibility (EMC)
IEC 61000-4-3 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) - Testing and
Measurement Techniques - Radiated, Radio
Frequency Electromagnetic Field Immunity Test
Page 5 of 38
IEC 61000-6-2 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) -Generic

Standards - Immunity for Industrial
Environments
NFPA 70 National Electric Code (NEC)
4 Definitions and Abbreviations
4.1 Definitions
Beta Ratio: Ratio between orifice bore size and pipe internal diameter.
Buyer: The Company (Saudi Aramco, Aramco Overseas Co., or Aramco

Services Co.) actually placing the order for the material. The buyer can be a
third party metering system customer.
Buyer's Representative: The person acting on behalf of the Buyer, who may
be from the Engineering, Inspection, Purchasing, or User organization.
Custody Transfer Measurement: A specialized form of measurement that
provides quantity and quality information used for the physical and fiscal
documentation of a change in ownership and/or responsibility of hydrocarbon
commodities. This includes measurement of hydrocarbon liquid or gas
movements (deliveries or receipts) between Saudi Aramco and its customers,
suppliers, joint ventures and transport contractors including VELA ships.
Flow Computer: A dedicated off-the-shelf electronic device specifically
designed for calculating and totaling metered volumes, and/or calculating meter
factors during meter proving for one or more meters.
Meter Tubes: The straight upstream pipe and fittings between the flow meter
and the upstream pipe flange and the similar downstream pipe and fittings
between the flow meter and the downstream pipe flange.
Metering Station: A facility that is primarily dedicated to the measurement of

the quantity and quality of a liquid or gas hydrocarbon. The facility may
include, but not be limited to storage tanks, pipelines, piping, regulators, valves,
strainers/filters, flow straightening and conditioning equipment, samplers,
measurement elements, provers, Remote Terminal Units (RTU), pumps,
communications (data and SA telephone), metering shelter, UPS, area fencing,
area paving, area lighting, isolation valve systems and associated
instrumentation, alarms, computers with software programs, peripheral
equipment and associated control functions.
Metering Supervisory Computer (MSC): A computer that performs

supervisory functions (data archiving, report generation, system integrity
checks, alarm logging and operator interface) for a metering system.
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Metering System: A complete assembly of equipment that is designed to

measure the quantity and quality of hydrocarbon liquid or gas. The metering
system includes, but is not limited to, the meter skid (meters, filters, analyzers,
flow conditioning sections, valves), samplers, and control system (flow
computers, metering supervisory computers, etc.).
Orifice Meter: A fluid flow measuring device that produces a differential

pressure to infer flow rate. It consists of a thin, concentric, square-edge orifice
plate, mounted in a single or double chamber orifice fitting and equipped with
differential pressure sensing taps. Single chamber orifice fitting may be used
only in multitube meter skids or where it is possible to shutdown the station to
inspect the orifice plate.
Redundant Devices: Two identical devices that operate in an interchangeable

primary/secondary arrangement in which the functions of the primary device are
duplicated in the secondary and are automatically transferred to the secondary if
the primary fails without the intervention of a third device.
Ultrasonic Meter: A fluid flow measuring device that utilizes transit-time

ultrasonic signals to measure the flow rate.
Vendor: The party that supplies or sells integrated metering systems, metering
equipment, or components.
4.2 Abbreviations
A/C: Air Conditioner
BTU/SCF: British Thermal Unit per Standard Cubic Feet
D: Pipe Nominal Diameter
GC: Gas Chromatograph
HMI: Human Machine Interface
I.D.: Internal Diameter
LCD: Liquid Crystal Display
MF: Meter Factor
MMBTU: Million British Thermal Unit
MMSCF: Million Standard Cubic Feet
MMSCFD: Million Standard Cubic Feet per Day
MOV: Motor Operated Valve
MSC: Metering Supervisory Computer
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MSCFH: Thousand Standard Cubic Feet per Hour

OSPAS: Oil Supply, Planning and Scheduling Dept.
PIB: Process Interface Building
RTU: Remote Terminal Unit
SAPMT: Saudi Aramco Project Management Team
UFM: Multi-Path Ultrasonic Transit-Time Flow Meter
UPS: Uninterruptable Power Supply
WC: Water Column
5 General Requirements
5.1 Approved Vendors
Meters, meter run instruments and control systems shall be purchased as an

integrated system. A single vendor shall be responsible for the design,
fabrication, assembly and proper functionality of the metering system.
Gas custody metering systems shall be fabricated by approved vendors. The list
of approved vendors for gas custody metering systems & equipment shall be
obtained from SAES-Y-100.
Instruments, valves and electrical equipment to be used in the gas custody

metering system shall be furnished from approved vendors as specified in
SAES-J-002, SAES-L-102 and SAES-P-101, respectively.
Gas custody metering projects shall be executed in accordance with the

requirements of SAEP-21 or SAEP-50, as applicable. The construction agency
(i.e., SAPMT) is responsible for ensuring the design and construction
contractors provide a fully operational metering system that meets both the
provisions of this standard and the approved project functional design
specifications.
5.2 Classification of Gas Metering Systems
Gas Metering Systems are classified into three categories as defined below:
Small Gas Metering System: A metering system designed to handle gas flow
rates of 20 MMSCFD or less.
Medium Gas Metering System: A metering system that is designed to measure

gas flow rates more than 20 MMSCFD, but less than 200 MMSCFD.
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Large Metering System: A metering system designed to handle gas flow rate of
200 MMSCFD or higher.
The specifications of each class of these metering systems shall comply with the
application requirements in Section 6 of this standard.
5.3 Units of Measurement
All dimensions of the metering skid and associated equipment shall be in metric
units unless otherwise specified in the project specifications.
The following US Customary units shall be used for the measurement signals,
calculations and final reporting for billing purposes:
Quantity Unit
Volume MMSCF
Flow Rate MSCFH, MMSCFD
Static Pressure psig
Differential Pressure Inch WC
Temperature °F
Heating Value BTU/SCF
Total Heating Value MMBTU
Density Lb/SCF
5.4 Reference Conditions
The gas volume shall be corrected to the following reference (base) temperature
and pressure:
Quantity US Customary Units SI Units

Reference (Base) Pressure 14.73 psia 101.56 kPa
Reference (Base) Temperature 60°F 15.56°C
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The local atmospheric pressure for different areas shall be as follows:
Location Atmospheric Pressure (psia)

Dhahran 14.542
Jubail 14.679
Qasim 13.606
Ras Tanura 14.693
Riyadh 13.667
Shedgum 14.191
Yanbu 14.686
5.5 Environmental Conditions
Equipment shall be suitable for installation in the applicable environment

specified in SAES-A-112 and shall meet the environmental conditions specified
in SAES-J-003.
5.6 Gas Specifications
The gas specification is expected to vary depending on the source and season
conditions. However, for the purpose of designing the metering system, these
product specifications shall be used as applicable: A-120, Dry Gas and A-130,
Ethane-Chemical Grade.
5.7 General Design
5.7.1 Layout
5.7.1.1 The gas custody metering system shall be skid-mounted,

designed for unattended operation and measurement.
The metering system shall be designed to meet the 120% of

the approved allocated customer demand. If this design
changes the class of the metering system, the metering system
shall be designed to meet the next class requirements.
Orifice-based metering system shall be sized that the Beta

Ratio is between 0.20 and 0.6.
5.7.1.2 Equipment arrangement shall be in accordance with

SAES-B-054 to ensure convenient access for operation,
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maintenance and/or replacement. Equipment (transmitters,

gauges, etc.) shall be located at convenient working heights
from top of any platform/skid work surface (i.e., grating), and
their access shall not be hampered by cross piping or other
fixed structures. Where equipment is located above normal
working heights, access steps or ladders and operating
platforms shall be provided.
5.7.1.3 Pipe header stubs shall be provided in the original design to

add additional meter runs in the future.
5.7.1.4 Blind flanges shall be provided at the end of each stub in case
total shut down of the metering system is acceptable.
However, for metering systems that cannot tolerate total
shutdown to install future meter runs, a manually operated
block valve with blinded outlet shall be provided at the end of
each stub.
5.7.1.5 The proponent organization shall decide if the metering

system requires filtration if black powder exists in the supply
pipeline and will have an effect on the downstream
equipment.
5.7.1.6 Two Flow Control Valves shall be installed in parallel

downstream of the meter runs outlet header of the Medium
and Large gas metering systems. Each Flow Control Valve
shall handle 100% of the maximum flow rate. Upstream and
downstream isolation valves shall be provided for each FCV.
Whenever possible, instrument air shall be provided.
5.7.1.7 Medium and Large gas metering systems shall be equipped

with a Remotely Operable Isolation Valve located outside the
meter skid. This valve shall be installed upstream of the
meter skid and shall be equipped with remote control
capability. Unless otherwise specified, this valve is beyond
the responsibility of the metering system vendor.
5.7.1.8 A sample probe and connection for manual sampling shall be

installed downstream of the meter. If a GC is installed, the
outlet of the sample probe shall have a suitable connection for
manual sampling.
5.7.1.9 For Large gas metering systems, an online GC shall be

installed. The sample probe shall be connected downstream
of the meter runs. The location of the sample probe shall be
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confirmed by the manufacturer to ensure the optimum

performance.
5.7.1.10 For Medium gas metering systems, a dedicated online GC

shall be installed unless a representative gas composition can
be obtained from an online GC installed at a common and
unique gas supply header, then an automatic composite
sampling system can be installed, if requested by the
Proponent, to collect and store representative gas sample over
a period of one week.
5.7.2 Piping
5.7.2.1 All skid-mounted piping and pressure containing components

shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
ASME B31.3 or ASME B31.8, SAES-L-105, 01-SAMSS-010
and 01-SAMSS-017.
5.7.2.2 Metering system piping arrangement shall be designed with a

minimum number of bends and fittings.
5.7.2.3 Piping design between the meter runs and the control valves
shall minimize the propagation of acoustic noise to the flow
meter(s) especially when ultrasonic meters are used.
5.7.2.4 The design pressure and temperature of the metering system

piping shall match that of its interconnecting piping.
5.7.2.5 If a bypass line is installed, it shall include a double block-

and-bleed valve or upstream and downstream isolation ball
valves with a spectacle blind to prevent leakage during
normal operation.
5.7.2.6 Gas metering systems shall be equipped with vent lines for
depressurization. Vent lines shall extend at least 3 meters
above the highest operating platform and shall be properly
supported.
5.7.2.7 Pipe connections for vents, drains and samplers shall be in

accordance with Standard Drawings AC-036045 and
AE-036046.
5.7.2.8 Flanges and fittings welded to meter tubes shall have internal
weld joints ground to a smooth finish, flush with the internal
diameter of the pipe and free of sharp edges or abrupt
changes in surface level or diameter.
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5.7.2.9 Flanges and Gaskets shall be as per Saudi Aramco standard

SAES-L-109. Gaskets shall be purchased or trimmed to have
at least a 10 mm larger inside diameter (bore) than the meter
tube for 12 inch tube size and above. For 10 inch and below,
gasket internal diameter shall have at least 6 mm larger inside
diameter (bore) than the meter tube.
Commentary Note:
This is required to preclude the gasket from protruding into

the tube interior through misalignment or compression.
5.7.2.10 Protective coating shall be applied to the external surfaces of

all piping and equipment and shall be in accordance with
Saudi Aramco standard SAES-H-001.
5.7.3 Instrumentation
5.7.3.1 The mounting of field instruments shall be in accordance with

Library Drawing DD-950053.
5.7.3.2 A temperature measurement is required for all metering

systems. The installation of primary temperature measurement
devices and test thermowells shall conform to Details 1 or 3 of
Standard Drawing AB-036019 and SAES-J-400 as applicable.
5.7.3.3 For metering systems with orifice meters, two differential

pressure transmitters shall be installed for each meter run.
One DP transmitter for low range (20 inch of water column)
and the other for high range (100 inch of water column).
Where a field mounted flow computer is used, only one DP is

required.
Static Pressure transmitter shall also be provided for each

meter run. The static pressure connection shall be derived
from the orifice meter downstream pressure tap.
5.7.3.4 For metering systems with ultrasonic meters, a static Pressure

transmitter shall be installed on each meter run. The static
pressure tube shall be connected to the pressure tap on the
meter body.
5.7.3.5 Pressure transmitters shall be installed in accordance with

Library Drawings DC-950042 and DC-950043 and
SAES-J-200 as applicable.
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5.7.3.6 The gas metering skid shall have pressure gauges installed in
the inlet and outlet headers. The installation of pressure
indicators shall be in accordance with Detail 1 or 2 of Library
Drawing DC-950040, as applicable.
5.7.3.7 For ease of calibration, all transmitters (differential pressure,

static pressure and temperature) shall be grouped at a single
point on the metering skid facing the same direction. A fixed
calibration table shall be provided adjacent to the single point
for setting calibration equipment and to provide convenient
working location for the technicians. Adequate sunshade
shall be provided to protect the transmitters.
5.7.3.8 Override values for pressure and temperature should be

configured in the flow computer and should be used on
transmitter failure.
5.7.3.9 The transmitter impulse lines shall be installed with a slope of

not less than 1:12 toward the orifice fitting.
5.7.4 Electrical
5.7.4.1 Field instruments and electrical equipment shall be designed

for the electrical area classification as determined by
SAES-B-068 and as shown on the approved project drawings.
5.7.4.2 Design and installation of instruments and electrical

equipment shall conform to the requirements of NFPA 70,
SAES-J-902, SAES-P-104, and SAES-P-111. Instruments
and electrical equipment furnished as part of vendor supplied
metering systems shall also conform to 34-SAMSS-831 and
17-SAMSS-515, respectively.
5.7.4.3 Instrument cabling shall conform to 34-SAMSS-913.
5.7.4.4 Field junction boxes shall conform to the requirements

specified in SAES-J-902 and shall be installed in accessible
locations at the edge of the meter skid. Conduit and cable
connections shall enter each junction box from the bottom.
Each conduit shall be sealed with a weather-tight seal at the
entrance to a field junction box.
5.7.4.5 All metering automation equipment, i.e., flow computers,

system communications equipment and metering supervisory
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computers and PLC's (if provided) shall be powered by a UPS

system which conforms to the requirements of SAES-J-902.
5.7.4.6 Electrical and electronic equipment supplied as part of the

metering systems shall carry the EC conformity mark ("CE")
designating compliance with 2004/108/EC. An authorized
agency shall also have tested and certified the equipment is
immune to electromagnetic interference, electrostatic
discharge, radio frequency interference, surge and fast
transients, voltage dips and interruptions at Performance
Level A in accordance with IEC 61000-6-2. Tests shall have
been performed to confirm the equipment is immune to
radiated, radio frequency and electromagnetic emissions in
accordance with IEC 61000-4-3 using Test Level 3.
5.7.5 All components of the metering control system shall be for the sole use
of the metering system and shall not be shared with any other systems,
i.e., RTU.
6 Application Requirements
This section describes the minimum mandatory requirements for the three classes of gas
custody metering systems.
6.1 Small Gas Metering Systems
6.1.1 General
The Small gas metering system shall be designed in accordance with

Standard Drawing AB-036181. The Small gas metering system shall
consist of at least one meter run. Each meter run shall have inlet and
outlet manual isolation ball valves.
6.1.2 Meter Selection
Orifice meters shall be selected for the Small gas metering systems.
6.1.3 Meter Run Arrangement
The meter run of a Small gas metering system shall consist of the
following as a minimum. However, additional equipment may be
required as defined by the project design:
 Inlet isolation ball valve
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 Upstream meter tubes with a minimum clear length of 20D and a

flow straightening vane 13D upstream of orifice meter.
 Orifice meter
 Differential pressure and static pressure transmitters
 Downstream meter tube with a minimum clear length of 5D
 Two thermowells installed 5D downstream of the orifice meter one for
an RTD connected to a temperature transmitter and one for checking
purposes using a thermometer. The thermowells shall be separated by
300 mm, unless space restrictions dictate a reduced separation of the
thermowells of no less than 150 mm with the approval of the
Chairman of the Custody Measurement Standards Committee.
 Outlet isolation ball valve
 Sample Probe
6.1.4 Metering Control System
6.1.4.1 Metering Shelter
The metering control system of a Small gas metering system

shall be installed in a field mounted cabinet suitable for the
area classification and environmental condition. The cabinet
shall include the flow computer, the printer, the power
supply, the UPS and shall be equipped with adequate A/C.
6.1.4.2 Flow Computers
Measurement signals from the field instruments of each meter

run in the Small gas metering system shall be connected to a
flow computer mounted inside the field mounted cabinet.
The flow computer shall read all field signals, perform
volume and energy calculations and generate reports and
alarms.
The flow computer shall read the following data (as a

minimum):
 Static pressure and temperature
 Differential pressures across the orifice meter
 Differential pressure of the filter (if provided)
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 Manually entered data
A printer shall be provided and shall be installed in the flow

computer cabinet.
The reports shall be sent directly from the flow computer to

the printer. Daily tickets shall be generated automatically and
upon a manual request.
6.1.4.3 Alternative Control System Design
For Small gas metering systems, field mounted flow

computers with multivariable transmitter capability may be
used with the approval of the Chairman of the Custody
Measurement Standards Committee. If approved, inputs from
the multivariable transmitters can be connected directly to the
field flow computer and the gas metering system shall be
designed in accordance with Standard Drawing AB-036180.
Daily tickets shall be generated automatically and archived in

the memory of the field mounted flow computer for a
minimum period of 31 days (1 month).
Reports shall be retrieved using a laptop computer connected

to the flow computer. The laptop and the connection shall be
suitable for the area classification.
6.2 Medium Gas Metering Systems
6.2.1 General
The Medium gas metering system shall be designed in accordance with

Standard Drawing AB-036183. The Medium gas metering system shall
consist of at least one meter run. In case the metering system capacity
cannot be handled by one meter, multiple meter runs shall be installed in
parallel. Each meter run shall have inlet and outlet isolation ball valves.
Ultrasonic meters shall be selected for the Medium gas metering system.
Selection of orifice meters for Medium gas metering systems is subject

to the approval of the Chairman of Custody Measurement Standards
Committee. Upon approval, the Medium gas metering system shall be
designed in accordance with Standard Drawing AB-036182.
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The meter run of a Medium gas metering system shall consist of the
 Inlet isolation ball valve
 Upstream meter tube consisting of two sections with a minimum
clear length of 20D and a flow conditioning plate installed midway.
 Ultrasonic flow meter
 Pressure transmitter
 Two thermowells installed 5D downstream of the meter one for an
RTD connected to a temperature transmitter and one for checking
purposes using a thermometer. The thermowells shall be separated
by 300 mm, unless space restrictions dictate a reduced separation of
the thermowells of no less than150 mm with the approval of the
 2" flanged inspection fitting downstream of the thermowells, the
fitting shall be mounted at 45° facing the flow.
 Outlet isolation ball valve
 Sample Probe
6.2.4.1 Metering Building
The metering control system of a Medium gas metering

system shall be mounted in a process interface building (PIB)
that complies with the requirements of SAES-J-801. The PIB
shall include the flow computer cabinet, the metering
supervisory computer (MSC), the printer, the communication
equipment, the power supply, the UPS, telephone, and the
A/C.
The design and construction of the PIB shall not be part of the
scope of the metering system vendor. This shall be specified
in the project documentation.
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6.2.4.2 Flow Computer
Measurement signals from the field instruments of each meter

run of the Medium gas metering system shall be connected to
a flow computer mounted in a cabinet. The flow computer
shall read all field signals, perform volume and energy
calculations and generate reports and alarms.
The flow computer shall read the following data (as a

minimum):
 Dual pulses and serial communication from the UFM.
Pulses to be configured as primary to calculate the flow
rate
 Gas composition from an on-line GC (if provided)
 Differential pressure across the filter (if provided)
 Manually entered data or data from the MSC/OSPAS
6.2.4.3 Metering Supervisory Computer (MSC)
The flow computer shall have a single (Serial or Ethernet)

communication link to a single metering supervisory
computer (MSC) that is loaded with an HMI package
designed for gas metering applications, a package for
configuration and diagnosis of the UFM, and another for
configuration of the flow computer.
The MSC shall have a direct serial link to the UFM.
The MSC shall be placed on an operator console suitable for

the location.
A printer shall be provided along with the metering control

system. The printer may be installed in the flow computer
cabinet or on the MSC console. Reports shall be sent directly
from the MSC to the printer. Daily tickets shall be generated
automatically every midnight and up on a manual request.
Provisions for printing reports directly from the flow
computer upon a manual request shall be provided.
The Medium gas metering system shall communicate to

OSPAS using a modem connected to the MSC to read/write
data, close the remotely operable isolation valve or change
Page 19 of 38
the settings of the flow control valves. The list of data for
communication with OSPAS including alarms shall be
specified in the project documentation.
6.3 Large Gas Metering Systems
6.3.1 General
Large gas metering system shall be designed in accordance with

Standard Drawing AB-036184.
Large gas metering systems shall consist of at least one operational

meter run and one standby/check meter run with piping and valves setup
to permit series or parallel operation (known as “Z” configuration).
In case the metering system capacity cannot be handled by one

operational meter, multiple meter runs shall be installed in parallel.
The multiple operational meter runs shall all have the required piping
and valves arrangement to be put in series with the standby/check meter
one at a time for verification purposes.
Ultrasonic meters shall be selected for the Large gas metering system.
The operational meters and the standby check meter shall be equally
sized and calibrated individually across their entire operational flow
range.
The meter run of a Large gas metering system shall consist of the
 Inlet isolation MOV (double block and bleed valve)
 Upstream meter tube consisting of two sections with a total minimum
clear length of 20D and a flow conditioning plate installed midway.
 Ultrasonic flow meter
 Pressure transmitter
 Two thermowells installed 5D downstream of the meter one for an
RTD connected to a temperature transmitter and one for checking
Page 20 of 38
purposes using a thermometer. The thermowells shall be separated

by 300 mm, unless space restrictions dictate a reduced separation of
the thermowells of no less than 150 mm with the approval of the
 2" flanged inspection fitting downstream of the thermowells, the
fitting shall be mounted at 45° facing the flow.
 Isolation MOV on the connection pipe to the check meter (double
block and bleed valve)
 Outlet isolation MOV (double block and bleed valve)
 Sample probe
6.3.4.1 Metering Building:
The metering control system of a Large gas metering system

shall be mounted in a control room that complies with the
requirements of SAES-J-801. The control room shall house
the flow computers cabinet, the Metering Supervisory System
(MSC), the PLC, the printer, the communication equipment,
the power supply, the UPS, telephone and the A/C. If the
control room is not part of the scope of the metering system
vendor, it shall be specified in the project documentation.
6.3.4.2 Flow Computers
Measurement signals from the Large gas metering system

field instruments shall be connected to redundant flow
computers mounted in a cabinet. The flow computers shall
read all field signals, perform volume and energy calculations
and generate reports and alarms.
The flow computers shall read the following data (as a

minimum):
 Dual pulses and serial communication from the UFM.
Pulses to be configured as primary to calculate the flow
rate.
 Gas composition from an on-line GC
 Differential pressure of the filter (if provided)
Page 21 of 38
 Manually entered data or data from the MSC/OSPAS
6.3.4.3 Metering Supervisory Computer
The flow computers shall have a single (Serial or Ethernet)

communication link to a single metering supervisory
computer (MSC) that is loaded with an HMI package
designed for gas metering applications, a package for
configuration and diagnosis of the UFM, a package to
communicate with the PLC to display and edit its
programming and another for configuration of the flow
computer.
The MSC shall have a direct serial link to the UFM
The MSC shall be placed on an operator console suitable for

the location.
A printer shall be provided along with the metering control

system. The printer may be installed in the flow computer
cabinet or on the MSC console. Reports shall be sent directly
from the MSC to the printer. Daily tickets shall be generated
automatically every midnight and upon a manual request.
Provisions for printing reports directly from the flow
computers upon a manual request shall be provided.
Large gas metering system shall communicate to OSPAS

using a modem connected to the MSC to read/write data, or
change the settings of the flow control valves. The list of
data for communication with OSPAS including alarms shall
be specified in the project documentation.
6.3.4.4 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
A PLC shall be provided for controlling MOV's opening and

closing upon a command from the MSC. The PLC shall have
dual communication links with the MSC.
The PLC shall automatically line-up the operating meter to be

verified against the check meter. After completion of the
verification (comparison) process and upon a command from
the MSC, the PLC shall restore normal line-up so that the
flow passes only through the normal operating meter.
Page 22 of 38
7 Equipment Requirements
7.1 Meters and Meter Tubes
The meter type for each class of gas metering systems is identified in Section 6
of this standard.
Meter tubes are not allowed to be fabricated in the field. They shall be supplied
by either the meter manufacturers or the metering system fabricator.
Orifice meters and meter tubes shall comply with the requirements of
34-SAMSS-112.
Ultrasonic flow meters and meter tubes shall comply with the requirements of
34-SAMSS-114.
7.2 Flow Conditioners
Flow conditioning devices shall comply with the pressure and temperature
ratings of the adjacent piping. They shall be properly supported.
Flow conditioners shall be installed in a way that provides convenient access for
ease of inspection, removal and maintenance.
For Orifice Meters, flange type straightening vanes or tube bundles shall be
inserted in the upstream section of the orifice meter tube to minimize flow
pattern disturbances. The installation of the straightening vane in the orifice
meter tube shall comply with API MPMS 14.3.2. The material of the
straightening vanes and their flanges shall be suitable for the application.
For Ultrasonic Flow Meters flow conditioning plates (perforated plates) made of
stainless steel shall be used. The design of the flow conditioning plate shall be
recommended by the meter's manufacturer. The flow conditioning plate shall be
mounted between flanges in the middle of the upstream ultrasonic meter tube.
The flow conditioning plate shall have provisions (such as marking or pin) to
ensure that it will be installed in the same orientation after dismantling the
upstream meter tube at the conclusion of flow calibration or whenever the
conditioning plate is taken out for inspection or cleaning.
7.3 Other Meter Skid Equipment
7.3.1 Temperature Instruments
7.3.1.1 Thermowells
Two thermowells made of 316 stainless steel shall be
Page 23 of 38
installed in 1 inch NPT tap fittings located on the downstream

meter tube. They shall be in accordance with Standard
Drawing AB-036019.
7.3.1.2 RTD's and Temperature Transmitters
Platinum Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD) with DIN

curve shall be used. RTDs should be of the spring loaded
type. They shall be connected to smart electronic transmitters
utilizing ambient temperature drift compensation for output
signal. The output signal from the transmitters shall be 4 to
20 mA DC with an accuracy of ± 0.2% of span or better.
Normal range setting shall be 0°F to 150°F. Refer to Saudi
Aramco Engineering Standard SAES-J-400.
7.3.2 Pressure Instruments
7.3.2.1 Differential Pressure Transmitters
Each Differential pressure transmitter shall be fitted with

5 way manifold valve in accordance to Library Drawing
DC-950061. The transmitters shall be mounted as close to
the orifice fitting as practical.
The transmitters impulse lines shall be ½ inch type 316

stainless steel tubing
Smart electronic type differential pressure transmitters with 4

to 20 mA DC output and with an overall accuracy of ± 0.25%
of span or better shall be used. Refer to Saudi Aramco
Engineering Standard SAES-J-200.
7.3.2.2 Static Pressure Transmitter
Smart electronic type pressure transmitters with 4 to 20 mA

DC output with an overall accuracy of ± 0.25% of span or
better shall be used. Refer to Saudi Aramco Engineering
Standard SAES-J-200.
The static pressure transmitters shall be fitted with 3 way

manifold valve in accordance to Library Drawing
DC-950042. The transmitters should be mounted as close to
the meter as practical.
Page 24 of 38
7.3.2.3 Pressure Gauges
Pressure gauges shall be in accordance with SAES-J-200.
7.3.3 Gas Chromatographs
The GC shall comply with the specifications of 34-SAMSS-511 and

shall be mounted in an analyzer shelter that complies with the
specifications of SAES-J-502.
Field mounted GC may be installed with prior approval of the Chairman

of the Custody Measurement Standards Committee.
Probe should be located on the top of the pipe and on the downstream
side of the metering skid.
7.3.4 Automatic (Composite) Sampler
Automatic (composite) samplers shall comply with the requirements of

API MPMS Chapter 14.1.
The sampler probe shall be as per Standard Drawing AE-036046. Probe

tip length should be as indicated in drawing. For pipe larger than to
24 inches in size, the probe tip shall be 343 mm long. Probe shall be
located on the top of the pipe and on the downstream side of the
metering skid.
Sample collection control systems shall provide a flow-rate based

sampling system with equally sized sample bites.
Spun cylinders (single chamber) can be used.
The Vendor shall provide two spare sample cylinders for the automatic
composite sampler
7.3.5 Manual Sampling
Manual sampling connection shall comply with the requirements of

API MPMS Chapter 14.1.
7.3.6 Filtration System
The filtration systems shall be skid mounted and shall be installed

upstream of the meter skid. They shall be redundant and of a type and
size suitable for the application and the maximum design pressure.
Filtration systems shall be specified by the design contractor with advice
from the metering vendor. They shall provide adequate cleaning of the
Page 25 of 38
gas without causing significant pressure drop. As a minimum, filtration

system shall be suitable for a minimum of 3 microns particle size with a
filtration efficiency of 99%. Pressure drop shall be no more than 15 kPa
(2 psi) when the filter is clean at the maximum design rate for the meter
or group of meters.
The design of the filter shall allow for online inspection and cleaning
without the need to remove it out of line (i.e., swing bolt, hinged-type
closure).
The filters shall be equipped with a differential pressure transmitter
The details of the filter shall be indicated in the project detailed design
and shall be approved by the Chairman of the Custody Measurement
Standards Committee.
7.3.7 Valves
Block valves shall be selected per SAES-L-108.
Double block and bleed valves for the Large gas metering systems shall
comply with the specification of 04-SAMSS-041.
7.3.8 Motor Operated Valve Actuators
Electric Actuators shall be provided for the Large gas metering systems
and shall comply with the specifications of 34-SAMSS-718.
Limit switches shall be provided to permit local and remote indication of

valve position.
7.3.9 Flow Control Valves
Flow control valves shall be provided in accordance with the

specifications of 34-SAMSS-711.
7.4 Control System Equipment
7.4.1 Control Panels
Control panels for the Small industry gas metering system shall be in
accordance to 34-SAMSS-821.
Control panels for the Large and Medium gas metering systems shall be
in accordance to 34-SAMSS-820.
Page 26 of 38
7.4.2 Flow Computers
The flow computer shall be provided to meet 34-SAMSS-846.
7.4.3 Metering Supervisory Computer
The metering supervisory computer (MSC) shall have single (Serial or

Ethernet) communication links to each flow computer. It shall also be
loaded with an HMI package designed for gas metering application to
perform the following functions as a minimum:
 View live metering data on a graphical format similar to field
arrangement. The live data for each stream includes (but not limited
to): gross flow rate, net flow rate, temperature, pressure, heating
value, gas composition and density.
 View totalized and average daily data in tabular format. The daily
totalized data shall include (but not limited to): the total volume and
energy. The daily averages shall include but not limited to: flow rate,
temperature, pressure, specific gravity and gas composition.
 Indicate live and historical alarms
 Capture reports from the primary and secondary flow computers,
archive and print reports (daily tickets, meter comparison report,
etc.). Daily tickets shall be printed automatically at midnight and
upon manual request and shall be based on the primary flow
computer data.
 Trend critical values from the meter runs
 Initiate an automatically controlled comparison of the operational
meter(s) using the check meter. As a result of the comparison of the
gas volume reported by both the operational meter and the check
meter during the comparison time, a report shall be generated to
indicate the performance of the operational meter and the process
condition during the comparison. The comparison report shall
comply with the format described in Appendix C.
 Communicate to the GC processor to display the analysis, archive
results and verify the performance or the configuration.
The MSC shall be loaded with a package for configuration and diagnosis
of the UFM, a package to communicate with the PLC to display and edit
its programming and another for configuration of the flow computer.
Page 27 of 38
7.4.4 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
A PLC shall be provided to operate the MOV's in Large gas metering

systems. The PLC shall meet the requirements of 34-SAMSS-830.
The PLC shall have dual communication links with the MSC.
The PLC shall provide logic functions and sequential control for the
following operations upon a command from the MSC:
 Opening and closing meter runs
 Valve line-up in preparation for and after meter comparison
The PLC shall provide Open/Stop/Close logic with completion alarm

timers, Remote/Local status, and the ability to reverse travel before
completion of a command for each MOV.
The PLC shall include interlock logic for sequential control of the
metering system MOV's. The logic provided shall include, but not be
limited to provisions for preventing the following:
 Opening of the valve on the connection to the check meter from more
than one meter run at a time (if the system has multiple meter runs)
 Closing of a meter run outlet valve prior to opening of the check meter
outlet valve and the valve on the connection pipe to the check meter
 Closing of the check meter outlet valve prior to opening of the meter
run outlet valve
The PLC shall set an alarm flag if an MOV is operated locally.
The PLC shall refuse a sequential operation and set an alarm flag if any
of the affected valves is in the LOCAL position.
In response to a “Compare Meters” command from the MSC, the PLC

shall sequence the valves for comparison as follows:
1. Ensure the inlet MOV of the check meter is closed
2. Open check meter outlet MOV
3. Open MOV on the connection pipe from the meter to be verified
4. Close the meter run outlet MOV
Upon receipt of a command from the MSC after completion of the

ultrasonic meter comparison, the PLC shall reconfigure the metering
system MOV's using the following sequence:
Page 28 of 38
1. Open the meter run outlet MOV

2. Close the the MOV on the connection pipe from the meter to be
verified to the check meter
3. Close the check meter outlet MOV
The PLC shall sequence the valves for an “Open Meter Run” command
from the MSC as follows:
1. Ensure the MOV on the connection pipe from meter run to the
check meter is closed.
2. Open the inlet MOV for the meter run.
3. Open the outlet MOV for the meter run.
The PLC shall sequence the valves for a “Close Meter Run” command
from the MSC as follows:
1. Ensure the MOV on the connection pipe from meter run to the
check meter is closed.
2. Close the meter run outlet MOV.
3. Close the meter run inlet MOV.
The PLC shall continuously run a self-diagnostic routine and shall set an
alarm flag if it fails. The PLC's program and data memory shall have a
battery backup with a minimum retention time of two weeks.
7.4.5 Printer
A panel or desk mounted laser type printer shall be provided according

to the application as specified in this standard. The printer shall print a
minimum 80 column with full 96 ASCII characters.
8 Testing and Inspection
8.1 General
The metering system components shall undergo tests as specified in the relevant
Saudi Aramco Material Supply System specification.
Functional tests shall be witnessed and approved by the Buyer or the Buyer's
Representative.
Page 29 of 38
8.2 Hydrostatic Test
All piping and piping components shall be hydro-tested in accordance with

01-SAMSS-010 prior to the application of external paint and internal coating (if
required). After the hydrostatic test, the pipes internal surfaces shall be dried
and protected in accordance with the requirements of Section 9.2.1 of this
standard.
8.3 Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)
Each complete metering system shall undergo a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)
at the Vendor's facility in accordance with SAEP-21 or SAEP-50, as applicable.
This test shall ensure that the system meets all functional and operational
requirements as described in the project specifications and the reference
documents. The FAT shall consist of functional tests of all the components and
checking the calculations using actual field or simulated signals. The FAT shall
be witnessed by the buyer or the buyer's representative.
8.4 Site Acceptance Test (SAT)
A Site Acceptance Test (SAT) similar to the FAT shall be performed after the
metering system is permanently installed at the field location. Refer to
SAEP-21 or SAEP-50, as applicable.
9 Shipping Requirements
On completion of the FAT, all necessary repairs, replacements or modifications to

hardware, firmware, and software, shall be completed and documented by the Vendor
prior to shipment.
The Vendor shall be responsible for ensuring the equipment is properly prepared for
shipment, including, but not limited to, the requirements specified hereafter.
9.1 General
All equipment and internals being shipped shall be braced and temporary
supports shall be provided, if required, to prevent damage during shipment.
Equipment shall be marked with water-soluble materials that will not attack or
damage the equipment at either ambient or operating temperatures. Marking
materials shall be free of lead, sulfur, zinc, cadmium, mercury, chlorine and all
other halogens.
Markings for export shall conform to the requirements specified on the purchase
order.
Page 30 of 38
9.2 Fabricated Equipment
9.2.1 Internal Protection
The internals of all piping, fabricated and assembled equipment shall be

completely cleaned and dried to the satisfaction of the Saudi Aramco
Inspector.
A non-toxic vapor phase corrosion inhibitor (CORTEC VCI-309 or

VCI-307, or equivalent approved by Coordinator, CSD/Material
Engineering & Corrosion Control Division) shall be applied to the
internal surfaces of all piping, fabricated and assembled equipment.
Commentary Note:
Vendors are cautioned to allow sufficient lead-time for the purchase and
delivery of the vapor phase corrosion inhibitor. Lack of planning by the
Vendor will not constitute justification for a waiver of this requirement.
The application rate for the inhibitor shall be 1 kg/m³ of equipment.
The inhibitor shall be blown through the equipment using air with a dew-
point that is the lower of the following: 1) -1°C or 2) 5°C below the
lowest ambient temperature to be encountered in shipment from the point
of manufacture to the final destination. Application of the inhibitor shall
continue until the powder can be seen blowing out of the opposite end of
the equipment.
Following application of the inhibitor, equipment openings shall be

sealed vapor tight with steel covers in accordance with the requirements
for external protection.
9.2.2 External Protection
All external surfaces shall be prepared and coated in the shop with the
complete Saudi Aramco coating system (primer and final coats) as
specified in SAES-H-001. If the specified Saudi Aramco approved
coating is unavailable or unusable at the Vendor's site, an alternative
coating system may be used with the concurrence of the Coordinator,
CSD/Materials Engineering and Corrosion Control Division.
All bolts and nuts shall be coated with a temporary protective coating
(MIL C16173, Grade IV, or Denso paste or equivalent).
Permanent blind flanges or covers shall be installed with the gaskets and
bolts required for service.
Page 31 of 38
The faces of open, flanged connections shall be coated with a temporary

protective coating (MIL C16173, Grade IV, or equivalent) which can be
easily removed prior to equipment installation. Following application of
the protective coating, each connection shall be fitted with a neoprene
gasket, and vapor tight steel cover. The cover shall be held in place by a
minimum of four equally spaced bolts.
9.3 Electronic and Electrical Equipment
The Vendor shall determine if electronics and instruments are susceptible to

damage from shock, weather or extremes of temperature during shipment.
If required, such items shall be removed after the FAT and shipped separately.
Electronic equipment shall be prepared and protected for shipment in

accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. As a minimum, the
equipment shall be fitted with a vapor phase inhibitor emitter
(CORTEC VpCI -101, VpCI -105, VpCI-110 or equivalent).
Electrical boxes shall be fitted with vapor phase inhibitor emitters

(CORTEC VpCI -101, VpCI -105, VpCI -110 or equivalent).
10 Documentation
10.1 The vendor shall produce system drawings in accordance with the requirements
of SAES-J-004 and SAES-J-005.
10.2 Project documentation shall be developed, distributed, reviewed and approved in

accordance with SAEP-21 or SAEP-50, as applicable.
10.3 Documentation for metering system equipment (including operation and

maintenance manuals, product literature of all components, etc.) shall be
furnished in accordance with the purchase order and relevant material
specifications.
10.4 The vendor shall provide a list of recommended spare parts for start-up and two
years of operation.
Revision Summary
31 May 2011 Major revision.
Page 32 of 38
Appendix A – Daily Delivery Ticket Format for Ultrasonic Metering Systems

Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco)
STATION: AAAAAAAAA DELIVERY DATE: MM/DD/YYYY
PRINT DATE/TIME: MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM
TICKET NO.: XXXX FLOW COMPUTER TAG. NO.: AAA-XXX
SERVICE GAS: AAAAAAAAA
METER DATA:
TAG NO. AAA-XXX MODEL NO.: AAA-XXX SERIAL NO.: XXXXXX
MANUFACTURER: AAAAAAAAA METER K-FACTOR: XXXX PULSE/CF
PIPE ID (IN): XX.XXX USM ID (IN):XX.XXX
1. METER CLOSING (DATE/TIME) MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM:SS

2. METER OPENING (DATE/TIME) MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM:SS
3. IDLE TIME XX.XXX HRS
4. NET DELIVERY TIME XX.XXX HRS
5. METER CLOSING READING (MMSCF) XXX.XXX
6. METER OPENING READING (MMSCF) XXX.XXX
7. TOTAL VOLUME (MMSCF) XXX.XXX
8. METER CLOSING READING (MMBTU) XXXXXX
9. METER OPENING READING (MMBTU) XXXXXX
10. TOTAL HEATING VALUE (MMBTU) XXXXXX
11. AVERAGE FLOW RATE (MMSCFD) XXX.XXX
12. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE (F) XXX.X
13. AVERAGE PRESSURE (PSIG) XXX
14. AVERAGE DENSITY (LB/SCF) XX.XX
15. AVERAGE METER FACTOR X.XXXX
16. DAILY AVERAGE GAS VELOCITIES:

CHORD A XX.XX M/S CHORD C XX.XX M/S
CHORD B XX.XX M/S CHORD D XX.XX M/S
METER AVERAGE GAS VELOCITY XX.XX M/S
17. GAS COMPOSITION:

Mole %
C1 XX.XX
C2 XX.XX
C3 XX.XX
C4+ XX.XX
N2 XX.XX
CO2 XX.XX
Average Heating Value XXXX BTU/SCF
Specific Gravity X.XXXX
Non-Negotiable, Non-Transferable
Saudi Arabian Oil Company
Checked for Saudi Aramco by: __________________________ Date: ____________
Page 33 of 38
Explanation of Delivery Ticket for Systems with Ultrasonic Flow Meters

A new ticket shall be initiated upon delivery or receipt of a new batch; automatically at 12:00 midnight
of each day; or when manually initiated by the operator.
STATION - Alpha-numeric value entered in the metering system computer during initialization
METER TICKET NUMBER – Computer generated number plus an alpha character if applicable.
Numbers for each meter are consecutively assigned by the flow computer beginning with 12:00
midnight of the 1st day of each year
FLOW COMPUTER TAG. NO. – The tag number of the flow computer used to calculate the total
volume and energy for the batch
DELIVERY DATE - Date of the delivery
PRINT DATE/TIME - Date and time when ticket is printed
SERVICE GAS – Alpha-numeric value entered in the metering flow computer during initialization
(Natural Gas or Ethane)
METER DATA (METER TAG NO , MANUFACTURER, MODEL NO. AND SERIAL NO., PIPE
INSIDE DIAMETER, ULTRASONIC METER DIAMETER AND METER K-FACTOR) - Alpha-
numeric values entered in the metering system computer during initialization
1. METER CLOSING (DATE/TIME): Date and time delivery stops as determined by flow computer
2. METER OPENING (DATE/TIME): Date and time delivery starts as determined by flow computer
3. IDLE TIME: Calculated by the flow computer
4. NET DELIVERY TIME: Calculated by flow computer = Item 1-Item 2-Item 3

5. METER CLOSING READING: Total accumulated volume reading at the time the delivery stops
(MMSCF).
6. METER OPENING READING: Total accumulated volume reading at the time the delivery starts
(MMSCF).
7. TOTAL VOLUME: Item 5-Item 6 (MMSCF)
8. METER CLOSING READING: Total accumulated heating value reading at the time the delivery
stops (MMBTU)
9. METER OPENING READING: Total accumulated heating value reading at the time the delivery
starts (MMBTU)
10. TOTAL HEATING VALUE: Item 8-Item 9
11. AVERAGE FLOW RATE: Item 7*24/Item 4
12. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: Calculated by flow computer
13. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE PRESSURE: Calculated by flow computer
14. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE DENSITY: Calculated by the flow computer
15. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE METER FACTOR: Calculated by the flow computer
16. AVERAGE GAS VELOCITY – The average gas velocity calculated by the ultrasonic meter
processor and the gas velocity for the individual paths
17. GAS COMPOSITION - Either data received from an on-line gas chromatograph at every scan or
entered manually.
AVERAGE HEATING VALUE – Calculated by the flow computer based on the gas composition
SPECIFIC GRAVITY: Calculated by the flow computer based on the gas composition
Page 34 of 38
Appendix B – Delivery Ticket Format for Orifice Metering System

STATION: AAAAAAAAA DELIVERY DATE: MM/DD/YYYY
TICKET NO.: XXXX FLOW COMPUTER TAG. NO.: AAA-XXX
PRINT DATE/TIME: MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM
SERVICE GAS: AAAAAAAAA
METER DATA:
TAG NO. AAA-XXX MODEL NO.: AAA-XXX SERIAL NO.: XXXXXX
MANUFACTURER: AAAAAAAAA
PIPE ID (IN): XX.XXX ORIFICE PLATE BORE DIAMETER (IN): XX.XXX
1. METER CLOSING (DATE/TIME) MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM:SS

2. METER OPENING (DATE/TIME) MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM:SS
3. IDLE TIME XX.XXX HRS
4. NET DELIVERY TIME XX.XXX HRS
5. METER CLOSING READING (MMSCF) XXX.XXX
6. METER OPENING READING (MMSCF) XXX.XXX
7. TOTAL VOLUME (MMSCF) XXX.XXX
8. METER CLOSING READING (MMBTU) XXXXXX
9. METER OPENING READING (MMBTU) XXXXXX
10. TOTAL HEATING VALUE (MMBTU) XXXXXX
11. AVERAGE FLOW RATE (MMSCFD) XXX.XXX
12. AVERAGE DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE (INCH WC) XX.XX
13. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE (F) XXX.X
14. AVERAGE STATIC PRESSURE (PSIG) XXX
15. AVERAGE DENSITY (LB/SCF) XX.XX
16. GAS COMPOSITION:

MOLE %
C1 XX.XX
C2 XX.XX
C3 XX.XX
C4+ XX.XX
N2 XX.XX
CO2 XX.XX
AVERAGE HEATING VALUE XXXX BTU/SCF
SPECIFIC GRAVITY X.XXXX
NON-NEGOTIABLE, NON-TRANSFERABLE
SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
CHECKED FOR SAUDI ARAMCO BY: _______________________ DATE: ____________
Page 35 of 38
Explanation of Delivery Ticket for Systems with Orifice Meters

A new ticket shall be initiated upon delivery or receipt of a new batch; automatically at 12:00 midnight
of each day; or when manually initiated by the operator.
STATION - Alpha-numeric value entered in the metering system computer during initialization.
METER TICKET NUMBER – Computer generated number plus an alpha character if applicable.
Numbers for each meter are consecutively assigned by the flow computer beginning with 12:00
midnight of the 1st day of each year
DELIVERY DATE - Date of the delivery
PRINT DATE/TIME - Date and time when ticket is printed.
METER DATA (METER TAG NO, MANUFACTURER, MODEL NO. AND SERIAL NO, PIPE
INSIDE DIAMETER AND ORIFICE PLATE DIAMETER) - Alpha-numeric values entered in the
metering system computer during initialization
1. METER CLOSING (DATE/TIME): Date and time delivery stops as determined by flow computer
2. METER OPENING (DATE/TIME): Date and time delivery starts as determined by flow computer
3. IDLE TIME: Calculated by the flow computer
4. NET DELIVERY TIME: Calculated by flow computer = Item 1-Item 2-Item 3
5. METER CLOSING READING: Total accumulated volume reading at the time the delivery/receipt
stops (MMSCF)
6. METER OPENING READING: Total accumulated volume reading at the time the delivery/receipt
starts (MMSCF)
7. TOTAL VOLUME: Item 5-Item 6
8. METER CLOSING READING: Total accumulated Heating value reading at the time the
delivery/receipt stops (MMBTU)
9. METER OPENING READING: Total accumulated Heating value reading at the time the
delivery/receipt starts (MMBTU)
10. TOTAL Heating value: Item 8-Item 9
11. AVERAGE FLOW RATE: Item 7*24/Item 4
12. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE: Calculated by flow computer
13. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE: Calculated by flow computer
14. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: Calculated by flow computer
15. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE STATIC PRESSURE: Calculated by flow computer
16. FLOW WEIGHTED AVERAGE DENSITY: Calculated by the flow computer
17. GAS COMPOSITION: Either data received from an on-line gas chromatograph at every scan or
entered manually
AVERAGE HEATING VALUE: Calculated by the flow computer based on the gas composition
SPECIFIC GRAVITY: Calculated by the flow computer based on the gas composition
Page 36 of 38
Appendix C – Comparison Report for Ultrasonic Meters

STATION: AAAAAAAAA PRINT DATE/TIME: MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM
REPORT NO.: XXXX COMPARISON START DATE/TIME: MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM
SERVICE GAS: AAAAAAAAA COMPARISON FINISH DATE/TIME: MM/DD/YYYY/HH:MM
FLOW COMPUTER TAG. NO.: AAA-XXX
OPERATIONAL METER DATA: CHECK METER DATA:

TAG NO. AAA-XXX TAG NO. AAA-XXX
MODEL NO.: AAA-XXX MODEL NO.: AAA-XXX
SERIAL NO.: XXXXXX SERIAL NO.: XXXXXX
MANUFACTURER: AAAAAAAAA MANUFACTURER: AAAAAAAAA
METER K-FACTOR: XXXX PULSE/CF METER K-FACTOR: XXXX PULSE/CF
USM ID (IN): X.XXX USM ID (IN): XX.XXX
CHECK METER READINGS

1. ACTUAL VOLUME MMACF XXX
2. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE °F XX.X
3. AVERAGE PRESSURE PSIG XXX
4. AVERAGE DENSITY LB/SCF X.XXX
5. AVERAGE MF X.XXXX
6. AVERAGE GAS VELOCITY M/S XX.X
7. FLOW RATE MACFH XXX
8. STANDARD VOLUME MMSCF XXX
OPERATIONAL METER READINGS:

9. ACTUAL VOLUME MMACF XXX
10. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE °F XX.X
11. AVERAGE PRESSURE PSIG XXX
12. AVERAGE DENSITY LB/SCF X.XXX
13. AVERAGE MF X.XXXX
14. AVERAGE GAS VELOCITY M/S XX.X
15. FLOW RATE MACFH XXX
16. STANDARD VOLUME MMSCF XXX
17. VOL. DEVIATION % X.XX

18. DURATION OF COMPARISON HH:MM:SS XX:XX:XX
HISTORICAL RECORDS:
DATE: MM/DD/YY MM/DD/Y MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY
FLOW RATE X.XXXX X.XXXX X.XXXX X.XXXX X.XXXX X.XXXX X.XXXX
DEV. % X.XX X.XX X.XX X.XX X.XX X.XX X.XX
CHECKED FOR SAUDI ARAMCO BY: ________________________ DATE: ____________
Page 37 of 38
Explanation of Comparison Report for Ultrasonic Meters

A new master meter comparison report shall be generated upon completion of the verification
of the operational meter(s) against the check meter.
STATION - Alpha-numeric value entered in the metering system computer during initialization.
REPORT NUMBER – Computer generated number plus an alpha character if applicable. Numbers for
each meter are consecutively assigned by the MSC every time a comparison is initiated
PRINT DATE/TIME - Date and time when comparison report is printed.
COMPARISON START AND FINISH DATE/TIME: The date & time when the comparison was
actually started and completed
OPERATIONAL & CHECK METERS DATA (METER TAG NO, MANUFACTURER, MODEL
NO. AND SERIAL NO, K FACTOR & UFM INSIDE DIAMETER) - Alpha-numeric values entered in
the metering system computer during initialization
CHECK & OPERATIONAL METER READINGS: The following data are determined during each
run of the comparison process based on measurement by the check & operational meters and their
associated instruments
1 & 9. ACTUAL VOLUME – The volume at flowing conditions for operational and check meters
2 & 10. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE – Flow weighted average temperature for operational and check
meters
3 & 11. AVERAGE PRESSURE – Flow weighted average pressure for operational and check meters
4 & 12. AVERAGE DENSITY – Flow weighted average density for operational and check meters
5. & 13AVERAGE MF – This applies only to the check meter and should reflect the average MF during
the comparison
6 & 14. AVERAGE GAS VELOCITY – The average gas velocity for operational and check meters
7 & 15. FLOW RATE – The gas flow rate in the operational and check meters
8 & 16. STANDARD VOLUME – The volume at reference conditions for operational and check meters
17. VOLUME DEVIATION – (Line 16 – Line 8)/Line 8 x 100%
18. DURATION OF COMPARISON – Total difference between the comparison finish and start times.
The comparison of gas volumes of the operational and check meters shall start after reasonable
period of lineup defined the supervisory computer to establish check meter conditions similar
to the operational meter.
HISTORICAL RECORDS – The Date, Flow Rate and Deviation % of the previous 10 comparisons.
The Historical Record is updated each time a comparison is completed on the basis that oldest record
will be deleted.
Page 38 of 38

SAES-Y-101 Custody Metering of Hydrocarbon Gases

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Engineering Standard

SAES-Y-101 31 May 2011

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Appendix A – Daily Delivery Ticket Format

Previous Issue: 28 April 2009 Next Planned Update: 31 May 2016

Copyright©Saudi Aramco 2011. All rights reserved.

2 Conflicts and Deviations

3.1 Saudi Aramco References

Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures

Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards

Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications

34-SAMSS-112 Orifice Meters for Gas Custody Measurement

Saudi Aramco Standard and Library Drawings

Saudi Aramco Product Specifications

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards

American Gas Association (AGA)

American Petroleum Institute (API), Manual of Petroleum Measurement

3.3 Other Documents

IEC 61000-6-2 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) -Generic

4 Definitions and Abbreviations

Buyer: The Company (Saudi Aramco, Aramco Overseas Co., or Aramco

Metering Station: A facility that is primarily dedicated to the measurement of

Metering Supervisory Computer (MSC): A computer that performs

Metering System: A complete assembly of equipment that is designed to

Orifice Meter: A fluid flow measuring device that produces a differential

Redundant Devices: Two identical devices that operate in an interchangeable

Ultrasonic Meter: A fluid flow measuring device that utilizes transit-time

MSCFH: Thousand Standard Cubic Feet per Hour

5.1 Approved Vendors

Meters, meter run instruments and control systems shall be purchased as an

Instruments, valves and electrical equipment to be used in the gas custody

Gas custody metering projects shall be executed in accordance with the

5.2 Classification of Gas Metering Systems

Medium Gas Metering System: A metering system that is designed to measure

5.3 Units of Measurement

5.4 Reference Conditions

Quantity US Customary Units SI Units

The local atmospheric pressure for different areas shall be as follows:

Location Atmospheric Pressure (psia)

5.5 Environmental Conditions

Equipment shall be suitable for installation in the applicable environment

5.6 Gas Specifications

5.7 General Design

5.7.1.1 The gas custody metering system shall be skid-mounted,

The metering system shall be designed to meet the 120% of

Orifice-based metering system shall be sized that the Beta

5.7.1.2 Equipment arrangement shall be in accordance with

maintenance and/or replacement. Equipment (transmitters,

5.7.1.3 Pipe header stubs shall be provided in the original design to

5.7.1.5 The proponent organization shall decide if the metering

5.7.1.6 Two Flow Control Valves shall be installed in parallel

5.7.1.7 Medium and Large gas metering systems shall be equipped

5.7.1.8 A sample probe and connection for manual sampling shall be

5.7.1.9 For Large gas metering systems, an online GC shall be

confirmed by the manufacturer to ensure the optimum

5.7.1.10 For Medium gas metering systems, a dedicated online GC

5.7.2.1 All skid-mounted piping and pressure containing components

5.7.2.2 Metering system piping arrangement shall be designed with a

5.7.2.4 The design pressure and temperature of the metering system

5.7.2.5 If a bypass line is installed, it shall include a double block-

5.7.2.7 Pipe connections for vents, drains and samplers shall be in

5.7.2.9 Flanges and Gaskets shall be as per Saudi Aramco standard

This is required to preclude the gasket from protruding into

5.7.2.10 Protective coating shall be applied to the external surfaces of